Portret van Frederik Willem II, koning van Pruisen 1791

Editor: This is "Portret van Frederik Willem II, koning van Pruisen" (Portrait of Frederick William II, King of Prussia) created in 1791 by Johann Samuel Ringk. It's an engraving and has that distinctive crisp line quality. It feels very formal and symbolic, like something commissioned to project power. What's your read on it? Curator: Ah, yes! It whispers of power, doesn't it? It’s more than just a likeness of a King; it’s a carefully constructed argument for his reign. See how the figure of Justice dominates? What objects does she hold? Editor: Scales in one hand... and is that a scepter and crown in the other? Curator: Precisely! The crown, representing earthly power, sits lightly on the scales. The artist subtly suggests Justice as a guiding light for the Prussian King. What else do you notice about her posture? Editor: She's really still and poised. Her gaze is focused and calm... but averted. Why averted? Curator: Now there's the golden question! Does it speak of neutrality? Or perhaps an unwillingness to confront the gaze of history? Artists embed puzzles like these into their work; it’s an open invitation for interpretation, which, I feel, makes us truly engage with the artwork. Does it invite you? Editor: I suppose so! The averted gaze creates an interesting tension; I hadn’t noticed that. And to consider how she functions to support an entire national identity—wild! Curator: It is, isn't it? We've merely scratched the surface, yet isn't it wonderful how an engraving can reveal so much? Editor: Absolutely, thank you! I'll definitely think differently about portraiture from now on.